The Legal Services Board (LSB) has announced the appointment of Elaine Banton as a new non-lay (legally qualified) member of the Board of the Office for Legal Complaints (OLC). This follows Dale Simon CBE’s term of office on the OLC coming to an end. She served from 1 August 2021 to 31 July 2024.

The OLC is the Board of the Legal Ombudsman, and this appointment has been made by the LSB in accordance with the Legal Services Act 2007. Elaine has been appointed to the OLC for a four-year term from 1 October 2024 to 30 September 2028.

As a barrister, Elaine acts for employees and employers in all areas of employment law, focusing on complex and protracted litigation at all levels. Her practice includes long-running multi-characteristic discrimination matters, and she advises both global and national businesses. Elaine handles all types of equality related claims. She was called to the Bar in 1996.

Elaine Banton said:

‘I’m delighted to be appointed to the OLC Board. I bring over 20 years of experience in governance on various boards and committees and look forward to working with OLC Board members on these important matters.’

Elisabeth Davies, Chair of the Office for Legal Complaints, said: 

"Elaine will be joining the OLC at such a significant time. We have already started an increased focus on sharing learning and insight with the sector and all will likely want us to do more of this as the sector deals with an increasing number of complaints – we want to continue to step up, helping consumers of legal services by helping the sector.
Elaine's knowledge of the sector will significantly benefit the work of the OLC and our focus on ensuring the ambition for LeO’s service and impact deliver for both the public and the profession.
I would like to take this opportunity to also extend my sincere thanks on behalf of the OLC to Dale Simon for her valuable service and contributions as a Board Member throughout her term of office."